Beyond The Briefing

Highland News & Media
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The stories behind the headlines - A weekly podcast diving deeper into the biggest local stories in the Highlands, with the journalists who covered them.

  1. Loch Ness pumped storage hydro development explored

    09/26/2025

    Loch Ness pumped storage hydro development explored

    Glen Earrach Energy proposes a 2GW output and 34GWh maximum storage pumped hydro plant utilizing Loch Ness and Loch nam Breac Dearga on the Balmacaan Estate. If approved, this would be among the largest pumped storage projects in the UK. While aligning with the government's net-zero environmental plan for 2045, the project has faced objections. Save Loch Ness, a community campaign group comprising locals, businesses, and experts, opposes large pumped-storage hydro projects planned for the loch, citing concerns about environmental impact and the loss of the loch's natural beauty. To provide clarity, Shannon Marvell will meet with both parties to discuss potential benefits, community opinions, and the anticipated impact of pump hydro storage on the area. -- This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media.  Hosted by: Shannon Marvell Produced by: Christopher Dixon Journalist: Shannon Marvell Stories discussed in this episode: Loch Ness pumped storage hydro proposals prompt call from salmon fishery boarde for public inquiry Loch Ness Glen Earrach Energy hydro plans spark objections amid fears over increased traffic on A82 and seismic risks Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) raises questions over Loch Ness hydro flood risks Loch Ness Glen Earrach pumped storage hydro project moves forward as planning application submitted Loch Ness £20 million Glen Earrach hydro scheme benefit fund consultation launched Get notified for every episode and subscribe. Apple Podcasts Spotify  YouTube

    33 min
  2. Exclusive: Alan Savage on ICT's future

    09/25/2025

    Exclusive: Alan Savage on ICT's future

    The papers have been signed and Alan Savage owns 100% of the Sarens PSG Stadium and the car park. In an exclusive interview by Andrew Henderson, Alan Savage is aiming to make the club commercially sound, increase fan engagement, and plans facility improvements, believing the team can succeed back into the championship. – This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media.  Hosted by: Shannon Marvell Produced by: Christopher Dixon Journalist: Andrew Henderson Get notified for every episode and subscribe. Apple Podcasts Spotify  YouTube

    16 min
  3. Shinty talk: Bught to the Future

    09/12/2025

    Shinty talk: Bught to the Future

    With the Camanachd Cup Final approaching and as we see through the final leg of the Shinty Season. We discuss the recent investment to the home of Shinty and how this could set the gears in motion for open more discussions between Camanachd Association and its members to protect the cultural sport and attract communities to get involved. – This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media.  Hosted by: Shannon Marvell Produced by: Christopher Dixon Journalist: Scott MacLennan Get notified for every episode and subscribe. Apple Podcasts Spotify  YouTube

    29 min
  4. “Charlie really is making a difference”

    09/05/2025

    “Charlie really is making a difference”

    Charlie’s Promise is a UK-based charity founded in memory of Charlie Cosser, a 17-year-old from Surrey who tragically lost his life due to knife crime in 2023. His dad, Martin, has made it his life mission to spread his story and tackle knife crime in the UK. In the Highlands we are lucky to see relatively little knife crime but education on this issue has made it important to Inverness Caley Thistle Football Club. – This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media.  Hosted by: Shannon Marvell Produced by: Christopher Dixon Journalist: Andrew Henderson Get notified for every episode and subscribe. Apple Podcasts Spotify  YouTube

    13 min
  5. "Sometimes you need a bit of luck"

    08/29/2025

    "Sometimes you need a bit of luck"

    With Ross Countyconfirming Don Cowie's exit by mutual agreement, just weeks into the Championship campaign, we break down what Cowie’s departure means for Ross County’s season. We take a closer look at how supporters are reacting to the news and what they want to see next as well as hearing from the Staggies interim manager John Robertson, who shares his thoughts on stepping into the role and guiding the club through a pivotal period. – This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media.  Hosted by: Shannon Marvell Produced by: Christopher Dixon Journalist: Andrew Henderson Stories discussed in this episode: Ross County still to find a win in the league as they are left stung by Partick Thistle in Dingwall to fall to the bottom of the Championship Ross County looking for new manager as Don Cowie stands down by mutual consent after defeat to Partick Thistle which sent them to the bottom of the Championship Ross County confirm appointment of John Robertson as Dingwall club’s interim manager following exit of Don Cowie Ross County interim manager John Robertson intends to buy Staggies board time to decide future direction while bringing points back to Dingwall Ross County interim manager John Robertson does not believe wholesale changes are needed in Dingwall to see Staggies rise back up Championship table - Get notified for every episode and subscribe. Apple Podcasts: Spotify YouTube

    15 min
  6. Are we prepared for 'tourism tax'?

    08/22/2025

    Are we prepared for 'tourism tax'?

    In 2023, the Highlands was the third most visited region in Scotland with 8.4 million overnight visitors while 1.6 million people visit the Inverness and Loch Ness area each year. Bust despite this, there are also concerns within the region's tourism industry over the possible introductionof a visitor levy by the Highland Council which has been carrying out public consultation. But with councillors yet to decide, we talk to Ellen Fogel-Walker, the new destination Director of Visit Inverness Loch Ness about why their tourism businesses members are anxious on such a measure. – This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media.  Hosted by: Shannon Marvell Produced by: Christopher Dixon Journalist: Val Sweeny Get notified for every episode and subscribe. Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

    16 min
  7. Where does John Swinney stand on local priorities?

    08/15/2025

    Where does John Swinney stand on local priorities?

    First Minister John Swinney faced tough questions in Moray this week after his recent visit, not just about the future of the A96, but about roadworks dragging on in Keith, and a financial crisis threatening NHS Grampian. Today, we break down what was said, what wasn’t, and what it means for the people living in Moray. – This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media.  Hosted by: Shannon Marvell Produced by: Christopher Dixon Journalist: [Journalist] Stories discussed in this episode: Moray visit sees First Minister talk A96 dualling, Keith roadworks and more Get notified for every episode and subscribe. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj

    14 min
  8. “I dream of the day where I will not be afraid of going to the toilet”

    08/08/2025

    “I dream of the day where I will not be afraid of going to the toilet”

    The Bare All Protest in Inverness documents a protest against the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) and Supreme Court rulings impacting trans rights. Multiple speakers address the erosion of trans rights, the protest highlights specific instances of discrimination, including hate crimes on trans people and access to public facilities. Speakers also emphasise the historical context of trans oppression and call for continued activism and solidarity. Andrew Henderson spoke to Star and Beth, who helped organise the protest. – This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media.  Hosted by: Shannon Marvell Produced by: Christopher Dixon Journalist: Andrew Henderson Get notified for every episode and subscribe. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj

    11 min
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About

The stories behind the headlines - A weekly podcast diving deeper into the biggest local stories in the Highlands, with the journalists who covered them.

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  • Creator
    Highland News & Media
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Highland News & Media
  • Show Website
    Beyond The Briefing